Palmer Lake, Colorado sits at an elevation of 7,200 feet where temperatures can drop below freezing at night even in summer months. Cabin camping options in this mountain location provide shelter from sudden weather changes while maintaining access to nearby hiking trails. Log cabin accommodations range from basic overnight shelters to fully-equipped vacation rentals throughout the Palmer Lake region.
What to do
Hiking trails near cabins: The Mueller State Park Campground offers cabins with electric hookups near multiple trailheads. "Camp here at least a few times a year with our TT. Full hookups are wonderful. Sites are clean and bathrooms are fine. Paid showers at campgrounds. A little playground. Beautiful and well groomed hiking trails," reports Ryan J.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Lone Duck Campground and Cabins, cabin guests often spot local wildlife. "We woke up one morning at our tent site with deer walking and eating down the creek right next to us," shares Tessa S. Many cabins throughout the area back up to natural areas where wildlife sightings are common.
Visit local attractions: Cabin rentals provide a base for exploring regional sights. "We enjoyed the local restaurants & attractions such as Santa's Workshop, a gold mine tour where they taught us how to pan for gold, Garden of the Gods," writes Pam R. from Bear Bottom Cabins and Glamping. Most cabin locations are within 30 minutes of major regional attractions.
What campers like
Comfortable sleeping arrangements: Cabins at Rampart Reserve provide climate-controlled overnight options. "We stayed in one of the tiny cabins, and it's adorable and so warm even when it was snowing," notes Lindsey M. Most cabin accommodations include real beds, though linens may not be provided.
Pool access at some properties: Several cabin properties maintain swimming facilities. At Lone Duck Campground, "The heated pool is awesome (and pretty darn warm!)," according to Danielle V. Swimming options provide family recreation during warmer months when temperatures regularly reach the 80s.
Proximity to recreational facilities: Cabins at Jellystone Park™ at Larkspur offer access to numerous recreation options. "What a place. Hundreds of spots- a water park, a bounce pad, cabins, golf carts, putt-putt oh my! This place is a campers with kids dream," explains Sarah F. Recreational options vary significantly between properties.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin properties require advance booking. The Colorado Springs KOA maintains cabins year-round but fills quickly during peak months. "We ended up at the KOA and took advantage of one of their adorable little cabins. All five of us spent the night, actually pretty comfortably," shares Ashley F.
Bathroom facilities vary: Some cabins include private bathrooms while others require using shared facilities. At Mueller State Park, "Clean facilities, polite staff, great views, fun trails. Bear boxes and campfire included," notes TEKn, though campground bathrooms may be a short walk from cabins.
Pet policies differ between properties: Many cabin rentals allow pets, but some restrict them entirely. According to Shannon C. at Goldfield RV Park, "This is a good place to park the camper and see the attractions around Colorado nice level spots clean restrooms and well kept grounds." Always verify pet policies before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Properties with dedicated children's activities make family stays easier. "So much to do for the littles!! Recently completely redone the entire park and it is all so wonderful! The campsites are amazing and the activities are so much fun," writes Stacy M. about Jellystone Park at Larkspur.
Consider cabin size constraints: Most basic cabins accommodate 4-6 people maximum. At Cheyenne Mountain State Park, "We had 3 people, a dog, tiny camper and a tent and had a great time," reports Kari M. Larger groups may need multiple cabins or additional tent space.
Check for kitchen facilities: Kitchen setups range from outdoor fire rings to equipped kitchenettes. Brandon at Bear Bottom Cabins notes, "The tent was spacious, beautifully decorated, and incredibly comfortable. All tucked away in the woods!" but mentions limited cooking facilities requiring planning ahead.
Tips from RVers
Park locations for cabin stays: Some RV parks maintain cabin rentals that allow testing cabin camping before purchasing equipment. "We stayed in campsite 46 very nice 47 even nicer two best lots here for us cuz we like being the by the water," writes Chester R. about Lone Duck Campground, highlighting the importance of specific site selection.
Consider noise factors: Highway proximity affects some cabin locations. At Mueller State Park Campground, "depending on the wind direction, and with no leaves on the trees yet…highway noise could be heard in the distance from interstate 25…but not loud enough to be an irritation," explains Dave V.
Utility requirements: Most basic cabins have limited electrical outlets. Leslie S. at Garden of the Gods RV Resort notes, "All the basics and nice sized spaces. Quiets down early evening and stays that way all night," but campers should bring battery-powered devices when staying in more rustic cabins.